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Potassium Deficiency Symptoms

A potassium deficiency can be a serious problem. However, it is generally an easily remedied problem unless the deficiency is significant and has been ignored for a long period of time. Potassium, like many other minerals, is required by the body to maintain homeostasis. Potassium deficiencies occur for various reasons and symptoms may be mild or quite serious.

  1. Why Potassium is Needed?

    • Potassium is a mineral that is needed by the body to control the balance of electrolytes and fluids within the body's cell. This balance is necessary to maintain proper muscle and nerve cell function. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals should have approximately 3.6-4.8 mEq/L of potassium in the body. Individuals with levels of potassium that are 2.5 mEq/L or less are in need of immediate medical care as these low levels can by fatal.

    Causes of Potassium Deficiency

    • Low potassium (hypokalemia) can be caused by the use of diuretics or laxatives. It may also be caused by severe vomiting, chronic diarrhea, kidney disease, excessive aldosterone hormone and by eating disorders that result in an inadequate intake of potassium. Also, pregnant women may experience low potassium due to an increased blood volume during pregnancy. Many pregnant woman will experience leg cramps when potassium levels drop too low.

    Symptoms of Low Potassium

    • Individuals with low levels of potassium generally feel weak and fatigued. Also, they may experience muscle cramps and constipation. Some individuals with very low potassium levels may have heart arrhythmias. In severe cases, a significantly low potassium level can trigger rhabdomyolysis, which is a disorder characterized by the breaking-down of muscle fibers. Also, severe hypokalemia can result in paralysis.

    Treatment of Low Potassium

    • Physicians generally seek to determine what underlying cause may be contributing to low potassium levels. When the cause is identified, it will be treated appropriately. In addition, individuals may need to take potassium supplements or they may need to make a conscious effort to include more potassium in their diet. Also, if diuretics are found to be the cause, it may be necessary to switch to a diuretic that does not cause the excess excretion of potassium.

    Potassium-rich Foods

    • Individuals with low potassium can attempt to raise potassium levels by eating foods with high levels of potassium. Everyone should consume at least 2000 mg of potassium each day. Potassium-rich foods include bananas, avocado, kiwi, oranges, watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, prune juice, raisins, tomatoes, Brussels' sprouts, Lima beans, peas, potatoes, beans, bran, granola, peanut butter and milk.

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